Will Clearasil hurt my skin?

October 22, 2007 11:22 AM

Will clearasil hurt my skin?

My skin is generally very clear except for some small bumps on my forehead that I can't seem to squelch for good. Applying a thin layer of clearasil vanishing cream every morning and evening is the only thing I've found to keep them at bay, and it doesn't seem to dry my skin out at all. Will applying Clearasil with this kind of frequency have a negative effect on my skin in the long run, or is it safe as long as my skin doesn't get too dry?

posted by shwynn2 to clothing, beauty, & fashion (4 comments total)

The main thing I would worry about is sun exposure, it definitely makes you more susceptible to being sunburned. My dermatologist also recommended not applying it skin right after washing. It was best to wait 15 minutes for the skin to dry before applying it, otherwise he said it could be to harsh on the skin.
posted by cftarnas at 11:35 AM on October 22, 2007

some people worry that long-term use of benzoyl peroxide will accelerate the aging process, given that the same reactivity that generates free radicals and makes it a good antiseptic also could harm your DNA and theoretically increase your chances of developing cancer, although I suspect it's really the aging that worries them. anyways, i still use it.

also, in the slight chance that you aren't already religiously doing so already, both chemical and physical exfoliation would probably help with your bumps.
posted by buka at 1:52 PM on October 22, 2007

If it's benzoyl peroxide, you are in more danger of damaging your clothes than your skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before you touch your clothing. When I was younger, I ruined quite a few shirts because I had to use it on my neck and my shirt collars would bleach out.
posted by The Deej at 3:07 PM on October 22, 2007

The Deej is right. Let it dry before you go to bed, or you will ruin sheets and pajamas as well.

Also, just be careful that regular application doesn't irritate your skin more than it helps. Benzoyl peroxide, while effective, is extremely strong. I have long since switched to salicylic acid and glycolic acid to treat adult acne. Specifically, I use Aqua Glycolic toner and Neutrogena's new 3-in-1 serum (it's the green one).

If you're using benzoyl peroxide OR glycolic acid, wear sunscreen during the day!
posted by bijou at 8:33 PM on October 22, 2007